Brambling

The brambling, a delightful small bird belonging to the finch family, is often affectionately referred to as the "cock o' the north" or the "mountain finch." Known for its extensive range and migratory behavior, this bird frequently gathers in large flocks. The brambling was first classified by Linnaeus in his 1758 Systema Naturae under the name Fringilla montifringilla, and it has a rich heritage in ornithological studies.

In terms of appearance, the brambling closely resembles the common chaffinch. However, during the breeding season, male bramblings are distinguished by their striking black heads, dark upperparts, orange breasts, and white bellies. Distinguishing features that set them apart from chaffinches include a white rump, an orange breast, and spotty flanks. Another notable characteristic is their yellow bill, which contrasts with the chaffinch's bill.

Bramblings breed in the northern regions of Europe and across the Palearctic zone. As winter approaches, they migrate to warmer areas such as southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Occasionally, they even reach Alaska and the western United States during migration. With an estimated global population of 100 to 200 million, bramblings are plentiful, although their numbers are gradually decreasing. They prefer open coniferous or birch woodlands for breeding.

Behavior-wise, bramblings are highly migratory and often form large flocks in winter, particularly when there's an abundance of beech mast (seeds). Their diet changes with the seasons: they consume seeds during the winter and switch to insects in the summer. For nesting, bramblings select tree forks and embellish their nests with moss or lichen. A typical clutch comprises between 4 to 9 eggs.